The best defense is to be aware. Know the weather forecast, especially if you are planning an outdoor event. If thunderstorms are predicted postpone the activity, or make sure you have a place to go inside, should a storm begin to develop.

Go indoors, if you’re out. Look for an enclosed shelter, or a car with a hard-top. And don’t leave the windows down.

If you are out in the open and have no place to go to, crouch close to the ground in a ball like position and minimize your contact with the ground. Do not lie down. Lightning can cause electric currents in the ground that can be deadly more than 100 feet away.

Separate. If you are in group, part ways, this will reduce the number of injuries should lightning strike the ground.

Keep away from open vehicles and shelters, like gazebos and baseball dugouts. Also tall structures such as trees and metal poles can be lightning rods. Be cautious of where you are standing.